Southern Restaurants in North Carolina – Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives

Southern Restaurants in North Carolina

When Guy Fieri rolls his red Camaro into North Carolina, he knows he’s in for some serious Southern comfort. The Tar Heel State has delivered 7 flavorful stops for Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives between 2010 and 2026, with 6 still serving up the goods today. These joints have earned an impressive average rating of 4.5 stars from hungry diners who know authentic Southern cooking when they taste it.

From the mountains of Asheville to the coastal shores of Atlantic Beach, Guy has uncovered some true gems. Huli Sue’s in Asheville leads the pack with a stellar 4.8-star rating, while Amos Mosquito’s in Atlantic Beach follows close behind at 4.7 stars. Down in Morehead City, Floyd’s 1921 Restaurant, Bar & Catering rounds out the top performers with 4.6 stars. Charlotte claims the most appearances with two restaurants putting the Queen City on the Triple D map. Whether you’re craving slow-smoked barbecue, fresh seafood, or classic comfort dishes, these North Carolina destinations prove that Southern hospitality and bold flavors go hand in hand.

Huli Sue’s

Huli Sue’s

Still Open

Asheville, North Carolina

★★★★☆ 4.8
Episode 575: Southern, Sweets, and Spam
AmericanSeafoodBBQ
Amos Mosquito’s

Amos Mosquito’s

Still Open

Atlantic Beach, North Carolina

★★★★☆ 4.7
Episode 492: Eastern Southern
AmericanSeafoodSouthern
Floyd’s 1921 Restaurant, Bar & Catering

Floyd’s 1921 Restaurant, Bar & Catering

Still Open

Morehead City, North Carolina

★★★★☆ 4.6
Episode 493: Rolled and Holed
Southern
Cast Iron Kitchen

Cast Iron Kitchen

Still Open

Wilmington, North Carolina

★★★★☆ 4.6
Episode 371: BBQ Bites and Southern Flavor
BBQBreakfastSouthern
Brine and Bottle

Brine and Bottle

Permanently Closed

Nags Head, North Carolina

★★★★☆ 4.5
Episode 194: Fully Focused
Southern
Dish

Dish

Still Open

Charlotte, North Carolina

★★★★☆ 4.4
Episode 98: Comfort Food Classics
AmericanSouthern
Mert’s Heart & Soul

Mert’s Heart & Soul

Still Open

Charlotte, North Carolina

★★★★☆ 4.2
Episode 286: A Bowlful of Soul
Southern